Event Descriptions 2008

Comedy

All Change - Kerry Leigh Juggling isn't easy - some days you hand your baby a beer and ask your man if he's done a poo-poo. Has this funny mummy gone gaga? Ride the highs and lows of a comedian's experience of first-time motherhood as she shares her story with painful honesty and curious humour. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 21 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm, 25-26 Jul 5:30pm to 6:30pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Barrel of Laughs - Underground Events Underground's ever-popular stand-up comedy club returns for its third year after a complete sell-out 2006 and 2007. Three jam-packed evenings of side-splitting, uncensored and unpredictable stand-up from the best names in the business. Set in the atmospheric vaults of the Old Hall (with equally atmospheric bar at hand!) Underground Venues - Barrel Room 11, 18, 25 Jul 8:30pm to 10:30pm £8.00 Children £7.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Clever Peter - Whitebone Productions (New Writing)An eclectic comedy-mash of the bizarre, ridiculous and the just plain funny! Let the children take you on an adventure you'll never forget... Discover why clowns join the army, what gorillas get up to in their spare time, and just who is Clever Peter...? Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 17 Jul 5:00pm to 6:00pm, 18 Jul 10:30pm to 11:30pm, 19 Jul 5:00pm to 6:00pm £7.50 Children n/a Concessions £5.50 Ages 16 + Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

HaHa!Oink - HaHa!Oink (New Writing)([oink] n. The characteristic of grunting in appreciation) Conran, Cook & Iqbal bring you their smorgasbord of comedy characters to delight your palate. Some you'll recognise, some you've worked with, some you may be married to. The girls are proud to present 'It was either this or get pregnant'. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 15, 22, 25 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

How To Make Tax-Free Cash From Your Kids AND Shop For Free At Waitrose - Matthew Collins For ten years Matthew Collins was low-budget traveller on BBC2's The Travel Show. Now he's a low-budget single dad - who doesn't just know how to bring up children cheaply, but how to make them pay their way. Join Matthew Collins for recession year's funniest family survival tips. Family ticket: two full price adults, two children free. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 11-13 Jul 5:30pm to 6:20pm, 15-16 Jul 2:00pm to 2:50pm, 16 Jul 6:00pm to 6:50pm £7.50 Children £4.50 Concessions £5.50 Ages All Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

It is Rocket Science! - Helen Keen Helen Keen (Channel 4's New Comedy Writing Award-winner) tells the story of mankind's extraordinary and exciting journey out into the solar system. Jokes about orbit mechanics! space Nazis! and stamps! And nothing whatsoever about how Uranus is a gas giant! Well, probably not...we'll see how it goes. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 26 Jul 7:00pm to 7:50pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Life isn't Everything - From Here to Absurdity In this quick-fire, 60-minute sketch show, Private Eye contributor Rick Kelly and Caroline Major highlight the absurdities of modern life. Special attention will be given to lusty estate agents, rapacious accountants, smarmy lawyers, men who can't cook, devolution, dysentery and death. 'Makes you laugh so hard you get odd looks.' Buxton Fringe Review, 2003 Underground Venues - Barrel Room 11, 13-14 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Love Song - Kaebide Theatre Kaebide Theatre return to Buxton this year with the fantastic, poetic comedy, Love Song by John Kolvenbach. If you like the mysterious and the eccentric, this is the comedy for you! Nice One-Old Clubhouse 23-26 Jul 7:30pm to 9:00pm £8.00 Children n/a Concessions £7.00 - Over 16s only Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Dance

*5 Dances - Spiltmilk Dance (New Writing)Spiltmilk Dance present five short dances inspired by the life and work of Andy Warhol. The work has a distinctively quirky twist and is intended to be immediately visually appealing to a wide audience. 'The interpretation was unique, the timing excellent and music choice inspired.' Audience Feedback. Two for one offer on all tickets! Buxton Community School-Drama Studio 14-15 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm £2.00 Children and Concessions n/a Ages 6 + Review Direct bookings via info@spiltmilkdance.co.uk 07790 821181 Direct Opera House Online Booking

Salsa Dance Evening - sensational salsa Join us for an evening of salsa dancing. There will be a sensational salsa demonstration followed by a beginners' lesson. Then music to dance the night away. Even if you have never danced before or think you have two left feet this will be a fun-filled night. Railway Hotel 11 Jul 8:00pm to midnight £6.00 Children and Concessions n/a Review Direct bookings via 07966 004810 07811 100191

For Families

Advice to Humanity - Mark Twain Talks See the SPOKEN WORD section for full details

Annual Art Exhibition - Burbage Art Group See the VISUAL ARTS section for full details

*As Torrents in Summer - The Brincliffe Consort - Directed by David Barnard See the MUSIC section for full details***CANCELLED***

Buxton Carnival Float - Buxton Festival Fringe See the OTHER EVENTS section for full details

Evacuees by Martin Beard - The Young REC Drama School (New Writing)Created during their weekly workshops, this play is about a group of evacuees in the Second World War who are staging a play of their own. An air raid interrupts their rehearsal and whilst the 11 to 12 year olds wait expectantly in the air raid shelter a personal secret is revealed... Nice One-Old Clubhouse 11-13 Jul 6:30pm to 7:15pm £4.00 Children £3.00 Concessions n/a Ages 4 + Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Five Go Mad in Buxton, again! - Black Box Theatre Company (New Writing)See the THEATRE section for full details

Fringe Sunday - The Fringe Celebrate the Fringe at our free outdoor taster event. Performers from this year will preview their shows and will be joined by face-painters, street performers and other random entertainments. Bring the kids and a picnic! Many thanks to Pavilion Gardens. Pavilion Gardens-Bandstand 13 Jul 2:00pm to 4:30pm Free Ages All

The Great Dome Art Fair - Peak District Products See the VISUAL ARTS section for full details

The Haunted Storybook by Corinne Coward - The Young REC Drama School (New Writing)Part of a trio of original one-act plays written especially for the Fringe. This is the story of a magic book which draws the children, aged eight to ten, into perilous adventures in a world full of haunting danger. All the plays are based on the children's own ideas... Nice One-Old Clubhouse 11-13 Jul 5:15pm to 6:05pm £4.00 Children £3.00 Concessions n/a Ages 4 + Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

How To Make Tax-Free Cash From Your Kids AND Shop For Free At Waitrose - Matthew Collins See the COMEDY section for full details

*Jim MacCool - Stratford Festival of Salon Arts (New Writing)See the MUSIC section for full details

*Music After the Cultural Revolution - Benny Chi Yum Hui See the MUSIC section for full details***CANCELLED***

*Music for Oboe and Guitar - Marios Argiros and Dimitris Dekavallas See the MUSIC section for full details

National Archaeology Week: Life in the Iron Age - Buxton Museum and Art Gallery Lindow Man, the Iron Age 'bog body' found in Lindow Moss, Cheshire, has returned to the North-West for a year from London. Join us for two drop-in workshops to explore his world with a different topic each day - Iron Age Life on Saturday and Iron Age Art on Sunday. Buxton Museum and Art Gallery 19 Jul 11:00am to 1:00pm, 2:00pm to 4:00pm, 20 Jul 11:00am to 1:00pm, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Free Ages All Review

Once Upon a Time High by Holly Friend - The Young REC Drama School (New Writing)In this play written by one of the students with input from them all, Pinocchio plots to wreck the lives of the other young teenage fairytale characters in this weirdest of high schools. Discounts available for families and two or more shows; see the website for details and bookings. Nice One-Old Clubhouse 11-13 Jul 7:30pm to 8:15pm £4.00 Children £3.00 Concessions n/a Ages 4 + Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

*Opera Night - City of Manchester Opera See the MUSIC section for full details

*Orchestral Concert - Amaretti Chamber Orchestra See the MUSIC section for full details

Music

Adrift on a Sea of Blues - Gill Sweeting and the Blue Cheese Tarts From the school of blues and the college of middle-age comes this enormously popular local band with big harmonies and even bigger hearts. Sassy, jazzy female vocalists whip the guys into shape, albeit oval. Expanding in repertoire, reputation and repercussions every year, this is the charity event to book now! Grove Hotel, Grove Parade 17-18 Jul 8:00pm to 11:00pm £6.50 Children £4.50 Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via Gill - 07763 414581 or Bestsellers Bookshop

Are We There Yet? - Dawn Foxall, Diana Sharp & pianist David Barnard It's holiday time! After some fun, the girls (previously seen singing at the Paxton Suite or in G&S at Buxton Opera House) and the indomitable David, fly cattle class to LA via a couple of unplanned European connections. This musical romp's an unexpected mix of musical and opera songs. United Reformed Church - Room 1 12 Jul 4:00pm to 4:45pm, Nice One-Old Clubhouse 13 Jul 11:00am to 11:45am £6.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Around the World in 60 Minutes - Tim Mottershead Tim Mottershead makes his long-awaited return to the Fringe with a uniquely eclectic collection of piano music from the four corners of the globe, including: Afghanistan, Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and his own free transcription of Iraqi Oud music by Munir Bashir - Taqsim in Maqam Lami. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 13 Jul 4:00pm to 5:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*As Torrents in Summer - The Brincliffe Consort - Directed by David Barnard Come and enjoy beautiful choral music written by English composers including Sir Edward Elgar, Sir Hubert Parry, Sir Charles Villiers Stanford, Sir Arthur Sullivan, Roger Quilter and Benjamin Britten. The Brincliffe Consort is a fresh and exciting chamber choir performing a wide range of glorious music to suit all tastes. ***CANCELLED***

A Bite at the Opera - Lora Gold A satirical, sexy and strangely surreal romp through the beauty and ridiculousness of the opera world - with fun and guaranteed gusto aplenty. Perfect for seasoned Festival-goers and the uninitiated alike. Leave your operatic misconceptions at the door and expect the unexpected! (Lunchtime menu available from the Old Hall's renowned restaurant). ***CANCELLED***

Don't Fret - Underground Events Underground open their doors once again to Buxton's vibrant music scene for two more Saturdays of chillout sessions mixing acoustic, jazz, blues and world music. Relax with a drink, come and go as you please or even join in. 'THE place to be during the Fringe.' Fringe Review. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 12 Jul 3:00pm to 6:30pm, 19 Jul 3:00pm to 8:00pm £2.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

For Your Ears Only - Tim Mottershead AWOL from the Fringe for six years, pianist Tim Mottershead's licence to thrill is renewed, as he performs and introduces Bond film themes to leave you both shaken and stirred. Including: Die Another Day, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, OHMSS, Thunderball, A View to a Kill... and many Moore! Underground Venues - Barrel Room 11, 18 Jul 5:00pm to 6:15pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Guitar Recital - James Rippingale - Classical Guitarist Classical guitarist James Rippingale returns to Buxton with an exciting programme including works by Domeniconi, Scarlatti and Tarrega. James has been praised for his 'wonderful versatility' and 'careful attention to the dynamics'. For details, sound samples and more visit www.james-rippingale.co.uk. Watch a YouTube preview at http://www.youtube.com/v/84pqnh-w4i0 Buxton Methodist Church-Church 24 Jul 1:00pm to 2:30pm, St Peter's Church and Hall 26 Jul £6.00 Children and Concessions £4.00 Review Direct bookings via 01332 781026 or 07934 386701

*L'homme armé - songs of love, war and courtly life - Aitone Medieval and Renaissance songs illustrating life at court for a man-at-arms, featuring the very rarely performed Missa L'Homme Armé by Guillaume Faugues. St James the Less 13 Jul 7:30pm to 9:30pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via tickets@aitone.org.uk Direct Opera House Online Booking

The Language of the Blues in Words and Music - Ruby Highway Band The Ruby Highway Band takes a look behind popular music's strongest influence - The Blues. With the words of Howard the Bassman, and the music of Ruby Highway, discover the hidden language of the Delta, the Juke Joints of New Orleans and how to get your Mojo working. Grove Hotel, Grove Parade 16, 23 Jul 9:00pm to 11:00pm Free - Some adult content Review

*Music After the Cultural Revolution - Benny Chi Yum Hui The Cultural Revolution has had a detrimental effect on Chinese cultural history. Musicians, artists and writers were persecuted simply because they were categorised as 'cultured'. This concert presents music written after the Cultural Revolution including Oscar-winning composer Tan Dun and UK premiere of Spirit of the Dream by Alan Chan. ***CANCELLED***

*Music for Oboe and Guitar - Marios Argiros and Dimitris Dekavallas Concert of oboe and guitar music, including pieces from Greece, France and South America and including some solo items. Marios Argiros is well-known as a versatile solo, chamber and orchestral musician. Fellow Greek Dimitris Dekavallas is a rising star of the classical guitar world with many prizes and competition successes. St John's Church 23 Jul 12:30pm to 1:30pm, St James the Less 26 Jul 7:30pm to 9:30pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Ages 10 + Review Direct bookings via mcmsophie@hotmail.com 07976 985373 Direct Opera House Online Booking

*Opera Night - City of Manchester Opera The City of Manchester Opera will perform a concert version of Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana (a tragic opera, including the 'Easter Hymn' and the famous Intermezzo) together with a selection of popular arias and choruses. St John's Church 25 Jul 7:30pm to 10:00pm £10.00 Children and Concessions £7.00 Ages 10 + ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

*Purely for Pleasure - Maia Singers An evening of words and music with the award-winning Maia Singers conducted by John Pomphery, accompanied by Ian Tate at the piano and readings by Delia Corrie and Charles Foster with something for everyone. Buxton Methodist Church-Church 19 Jul 7:30pm to 9:30pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £7.00 Review Direct bookings via rdocherty@madasafish.com 0161 432 7893 Direct Opera House Online Booking

*Recital of Piano Music by João Souza Lima - Emma Souza Lima Brazilian pianist, Emma Souza Lima, has given numerous performances in Brazil, the US and Europe. Her lecture recital celebrates the music of João Souza Lima and his contribution to Brazilian and international composition. The works have a strong French influence but are full of the exciting rhythms of South America. Buxton Methodist Church-Church 21 Jul 2:30pm to 3:30pm £5.00 Children and Concessions £4.00 ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

Sam Dunkley - Sam Dunkley Sam Dunkley - Winner of the Music: Best Performer Award at Buxton Fringe 2007 - returns to see if it was a fluke! Having produced a new album this year he is back with songs, jokes and stories - and without a set list! Come - it'll be fun! Underground Venues - Barrel Room 12, 18, 20 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Second Annual 'Folk Concert' - Full Metal Waistcoat Described last year as 'Disappointingly good', eclectic folk trio Full Metal Waistcoat return this year making every effort not to disappoint. Expect a mix of mournful ballads, thrashing tunes and songs all about the themes closest to their heart: drinking, and death. 'Morris dancing meets Stanley Kubrick', allegedly. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 16 Jul 1:30pm to 3:00pm, 16-17 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm £4.00 Children and Concessions £3.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*The Story of Jam - Chapel Youth Centre Jam Nite (New Writing)Take 15 young musicians, add one professional music company, and mix electric guitars with classical instruments. Told in words and music this story of the young people's journey through Jam Night is a must see performance that will rock you. Grove Hotel, Grove Parade 9-11 Jul 6:30pm to 8:00pm £5.00 Children and Concessions £3.00 Ages 8 + ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

*Summer Concert - High Peak Orchestra The High Peak Orchestra will present a programme including a performance of Martinu's oboe concerto with soloist Richard Simpson, principal oboe with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the High Peak Orchestra's President. The orchestra will also play Dvorak's Symphonic Variations and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No 5. St John's Church 19 Jul 7:30pm to 10:00pm £8.00 Children Free Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via 01663 719400 Direct Opera House Online Booking

Summer Concert - Manchester Recorder Orchestra The MRO is a Fringe regular and consist of a group of over 50 players with recorders ranging from the six-inch garklein to the eight-foot contrabass. This year's programme includes a modern cor anglais concerto, the classic Pictures at an Exhibition and rousing favourites from Holst and Rossini. Trinity Church 19 Jul 7:30pm to 9:30pm £7.00 Children Free Concessions £6.00 Ages 8 + Review Direct bookings via pagenine@btinternet.com 01298 71368

Summer Serenade - Cantores Novae with guest artist Alison Bletcher Come and hear this international award-winning choir conducted by Vivienne Pike singing music for all tastes.They will be joined by the virtuoso recorder player Alison Bletcher, a musician who has performed all around the country but still uses Buxton as her base. St John's Church 11 Jul 7:30pm to 9:30pm £6.00 Children and Concessions £4.00 Ages All Review Direct bookings via 01298 77802 or 0114 235 0993 or Buxton Violin Shop, 2 Scarsdale Place, Buxton.

Tales From the Cutting Room Floor - Steve Lake & Project Adorno (New Writing)Enter the strange worlds of sound-meister Steve Lake and beat poets Project Adorno as they take on underground film and pop culture. A multimedia double feature where digital collides with analogue, recordings clash with live performance and characters real and imagined slip on and off screen. Original short films and soundtracks inspired by particular film genres. Nice and Bijou-Old Clubhouse 11-12 Jul 9:30pm to 10:30pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

*Tideswell Male Voice Choir in Concert - Tideswell Male Voice Choir Tideswell Male Voice Choir last performed in this splendid church during the 2007 Fringe. This concert will feature the choir performing several new pieces, as well as some of those for which they have become famous. Don't miss the chance to hear this very popular choir. St John's Church 15 Jul 7:30pm to 9:00pm £5.00 Children Free Concessions n/a Review Direct bookings via 01433 650707 Direct Opera House Online Booking

*Un/Plugged: Amplified and Acoustic Trios - Expatrio Experience the passion and artistry of one of the world's newest and brightest chamber music ensembles as it presents an adventurous programme of works for flute, piano and 'cello... and glass rod and paper clip... St John's Church 24 Jul 8:00pm to 9:30pm £8.00 Children Free Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via expatrio@gmail.com 07783 402 666 Direct Opera House Online Booking

Underground Jazz Club - Underground Events After the sell-out success of Lazy Lunches, jazz returns to the Old Hall's vaults with a choice of times. Enjoy your lunch to a sumptuous menu of melodic jazz or relax at the end of a hard day and drink in some late-night rhythms. Food and bar available throughout. Underground Venues - Barrel Room 13 Jul 1:30pm to 3:00pm, 10:00pm to 11:00pm, 17 Jul 1:30pm to 3:00pm, 10:00pm to 11:00pm, 20 Jul 1:30pm to 3:00pm, 10:00pm to 11:00pm, 24 Jul 1:30pm to 3:00pm, 10:00pm to 11:00pm £6.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*Words and Music from the Wild - Running Free (New Writing)Christine O'Malley and Susan Gaukroger present original songs and poetry inspired by changing landscapes and lasting friendship... Christine's programme of music coincides with the recent release of her debut album, Artemis Grace. Sue's poetry has been published and broadcast. The Packhorse Inn, Crowdecote 16 Jul 6:00pm to 8:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

Fringe Readings - Festival Fringe Promotion A series of readings by local people, the subjects being a complete mystery until the day. Enjoy a quiet interval from the Festival hurly-burly and listen to a story or two. Old Hall Hotel 18 Jul 2:00pm to 2:40pm, 3:00pm to 3:40pm, 19 Jul 2:00pm to 2:40pm, 3:00pm to 3:40pm, 20 Jul 2:00pm to 2:40pm, 3:00pm to 3:40pm, 25 Jul 2:00pm to 2:40pm, 3:00pm to 3:40pm, 26 Jul 2:00pm to 2:40pm, 3:00pm to 3:40pm Free Review

Messages from the Marvellous - Wyn Hobson A 50-minute solo recital of poetry by various authors on a variety of remarkable or mysterious experiences. Given by the winner of the 2003 Lockwood West Poetry Speaker's Award. Featured poems include Upon Westminster Bridge, Fern Hill, Pied Beauty and Miracle on St. David's Day. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 12, 14 Jul 1:00pm to 2:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Notes on the Damned Human Race - Mark Twain Talks (New Writing)'The whole thing began with Adam and Eve, of course.' Starting at the beginning, Twain dissects the race's idiosyncracies, foibles, and pettifoggings, and ends up loving it anyway. This is a world premiere performance of this new work by American Bern Budd, a Fringe Award winner in 2006. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 17 Jul 10:00pm to 10:50pm, 18 Jul 4:45pm to 5:35pm, 19 Jul 10:00pm to 10:50pm, 20, 24-26 Jul 4:45pm to 5:35pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*Packhorse Tracks - Packhorse Poets (New Writing)Special guests at this year's Fringe gathering of the home-grown Dove Valley poetry group are Alec Rapkin, retiring Peak Laureate and Roy Fisher, internationally renowned poet from Earl Sterndale. The evening also features readings from the group's third collection and concludes with a short Open Poetry Space for visitors. The Packhorse Inn, Crowdecote 23 Jul 8:00pm to 10:00pm £5.00 Children and Concessions n/a Direct Opera House Online Booking

Three Minute Poetry 'Slam' - Word Wizards (New Writing)Poetry with 'edge' - poetry with 'attitude'. Original works performed in a competition format. Judged not by academics and laureates but by YOU (selected from the audience). No props, costumes or musical accompaniment, just three minutes to win your vote and progress to the next round. Laugh, cry and scream! Grove Hotel, Grove Parade 22 Jul 7:30pm to 11:00pm £4.00 Children and Concessions £3.00 Ages All Review Direct bookings via 01298 77362 or 07813 289358

Come Wind, Come Weather - Buxton Drama League Catherine, a young and inexperienced curate, bumps into Sybil, an old lady with a blistering contempt for Christian belief. A strong relationship develops between them - painfully stormy of course, but gloriously honest. As they explore each other's vulnerabilities, love blossoms like flowers on a cactus. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 10-11 Jul 7:00pm to 7:50pm, 13 Jul 4:00pm to 5:00pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Commonsense Solutions - Mike Mallett and the Waysiders (New Writing)Commonsense Solutions is a fake corporate seminar hosted by a fake sales organisation, M-Lane Logistics. Exploring the increasing fragmentation of knowledge in an era where the only solid truth is that of the sale, Commonsense Solutions is darkly satirical and at the same time tender and human. Nice and Bijou-Old Clubhouse 13-14 Jul 7:30pm to 8:30pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

ContreCoup by Ross Andrews - Second Nature Theatre Company (New Writing)This award-winning company presents the darkly humorous, moving tale of a man struggling to cope with caring for his wife, severely brain-damaged after a car accident. Will his interfering father-in-law finally convince him she's still 'in there' somewhere, or will the attractive new neighbour be a welcome distraction? Director: Sue McGeorge. Nice One-Old Clubhouse 16-19 Jul 10:45pm to 11:40pm £7.00 Children n/a Concessions £6.00 - suitable for over 15's Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Cracked by Brian Marchbank - Northern Gap Theatre Company (New Writing)Eddie Stubbs was a third rate criminal and a fourth rate father. His violent demise brings his four disparate offspring together, if only for the disclosure of his will. But this unearths deeply buried secrets. Performed by double award-winning Northern Gap, this black comedy is sharp, haunting and furious. Nice One-Old Clubhouse 21-22 Jul 7:30pm to 8:40pm £8.00 Children n/a Concessions £7.00 - Strong language - not suitable for young children Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Darling Deborah - Altrincham Garrick Society (New Writing)Who hasn't heard of Pepys? This drama, by a prize-winning local author, deals with one of Sam's amours - with his wife's respectable young maid. Appropriately, it is during the time of the Great Fire. What does the Victorian decoder make of Pepys' carefully-worded version of the affair? Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 9, 11 Jul 8:30pm to 9:45pm, 19 Jul 3:15pm to 4:30pm, 26 Jul 8:30pm to 9:45pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Do You Still Throw Spears at Each Other? - Dotted Line Productions (New Writing)The art of opening one's mouth and putting one's foot in it... a witty one-man play newly written especially for George Telfer. Set on an imagined walkabout tour, Prince Philip reflects upon his role as consort to the Queen and offers opinions on a host of subjects (no pun intended!). Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 14 Jul 7:10pm to 8:05pm, 15 Jul 3:10pm to 4:05pm, 7:10pm to 8:05pm, 16 Jul 3:10pm to 4:05pm, 7:10pm to 8:05pm, 18 Jul 3:10pm to 4:05pm, 7:10pm to 8:05pm, 20 Jul 3:10pm to 4:05pm, 7:10pm to 8:05pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £7.00 - Suggested audience 14+ Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Elegy for a Lady by Arthur Miller - Chads Theatre A man enters a boutique seeking a present for 'a dying woman'. Elegy for a Lady, a little known gem from Arthur Miller, explores an affair and the meaning it may or may not have had for the couple involved. A haunting, lyrical, enigmatic piece of theatre. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 10 Jul 5:30pm to 6:10pm, 16 Jul 4:30pm to 5:10pm, 26 Jul 7:20pm to 8:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*The Freedom Room - Brickwall Theatre Company (New Writing)Frustrated with just existing, Joe decides to become an anarchist. He plans a revolution to stand up against the Government, to make history. And all from the comfort of his sofa! A witty insight into the world of a man struggling to accept the normality of life. Railway Hotel 12 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm, 13 Jul 6:00pm to 7:00pm £7.00 Children n/a Concessions £6.00 - Adults only Review Direct bookings via brickwalltheatre@hotmail.co.uk Direct Opera House Online Booking

Fringe Benefits - Moving Talent (New Writing)The Edinburgh Fringe - potential for triumph, but with the wrong venue booked and a leading lady who cannot remember her lines, things could hardly be worse. Until a good deed leads to disaster when the choice of play exerts undue influence. New play by Patrick Gordon and D G Collins. Nice One-Old Clubhouse 11-15 Jul 9:30pm to 10:40pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £7.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

The Greasy Pole - The Barefoot Players (New Writing)Opportunity knocks but should you open the door? When ex-tv star Barbara and ambitious newcomer Miranda meet on their way up (or is that down) the greasy pole of fame, could their new double act be their passport to the stars? Or will it be curtains for one of them? ***CANCELLED***

Halfway - Vista Theatre Company (New Writing)Fringe favourites Vista present the touching, true account of one young man's rite of passage. Two actors intertwine to create striking images of his thoughts, feelings and relationships, exploring sexuality, the mortality of those close to him and - most importantly - human contact and intimacy. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 10, 21 Jul 10:15pm to 11:15pm, 22 Jul 7:00pm to 8:00pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*Happy Jack by John Godber - library theatre touring company A two-handed comedy drama by Godber, Happy Jack is a character we all recognise. A 'father, brawler, sometime poet, conman, lover, thug and comedian...' A typical northern mixture of tenderness, truculence, humour, pride and pig-ignorance. A very entertaining mixture of humour and poignancy! Hydro Cafe 19-20 Jul 6:30pm to 7:35pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 - unsuitable for young children ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

*I'm Ed Caesar - T-Pot Theatre Company (New Writing)Who is the real Ed Caesar? Known to millions as host of hugely successful television game show Who Are They? but caught between his ruthless agent and his wife's ambition to manage his career, something has to give. Can Ed survive? Opera House Box Office for Tideswell performances only. Catch up with Ed at www.myspace.com/whoisedcaesar URC Hall, Tideswell 18-19 Jul 7:30pm to 9:00pm, Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 21-23 Jul 5:00pm to 6:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978 Direct Opera House Online Booking

The Knowledge of Beauty - Get a Real Job Promotions (New Writing)Looks mean everything; looks mean power. A sharp, fast-paced domestic comedy about the role of looks within society, about attractive people, about ugly people. Performed by the brightest new team at the Fringe. Nice and Bijou-Old Clubhouse 19-20 Jul 7:30pm to 8:20pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

The Lover by Harold Pinter - Bath University Student Theatre Is a life without love better than a life without truth? Richard and Sarah's marriage is built on a bedrock of deception and lies, but when these illusions start to crumble it begins to seem doubtful whether there is anything left in their relationship strong enough to keep them together. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 12-13 Jul 2:30pm to 3:25pm, 14-15 Jul 5:45pm to 6:40pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

The Maids - Non Stop Cabaret Theatre Company A poisoned teacup, a mysterious 'Monsieur', a profusion of flowers and two sisters caught up in a fantasy of conspiracy and murder. Non Stop Cabaret bring Jean Genet's modern classic of secret rituals, hatred and revenge to the Buxton Fringe directly from their sell-out London performances. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 14 Jul 2:30pm to 3:45pm, 16 Jul 10:15pm to 11:30pm, 17 Jul 3:15pm to 4:30pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

My Mother Said I Never Should by Charlotte Keatley - Nice Venues YPT Co Chosen in 2000 as one of the hundred most significant plays of the 20th century, this powerful and at times touching drama moves back and forth through the lives of four women and sets the enormous social changes of the 20th century against the desire to love and be loved. Nice One-Old Clubhouse 22-25 Jul 5:15pm to 7:00pm £7.00 Children £5.00 Concessions £6.00 - Suggested audience 12 + Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

No Exit by Jean Paul Sartre - Bath University Student Theatre 'Hell is other people...' Sartre's classic is a powerful narrative on self-deception, responsibility and freedom. The team behind 2007's The Trial explore the relationships which evolve between three strangers as the truths they have been hiding all their lives are exposed and they come to terms with an eternity together. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 12-13 Jul 6:45pm to 7:55pm, 14-15 Jul 10:15pm to 11:25pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

*One Big Blow - RLT 7:84 Theatre Company's original piece of physical theatre about miners and brass bands brought back to life. Six actors playing several characters each with virtually no props, stunning a cappella singing including creating a brass band using only voices. Warm, funny and written before Brassed Off was even an idea. Buxton Spa Swimming Pool-Activity Room 19, 24-26 Jul 7:30pm to 9:35pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 - Suggested audience 14 + Review Direct bookings via info@romileylittletheatre.org.uk 07899 960601 Direct Opera House Online Booking

*The Opposite of Claustrophobic; Now Breathe Out - Breathe Out Theatre (New Writing)The Opposite of Claustrophobic: an unhappy housewife's brief, axe-filled encounter with a would-be burglar. Plus Now Breathe Out: a young man's surreal journey through the perils and pitfalls of finding an unexpected lump in his undies. New comic-drama by Rob Johnston. Buxton Spa Swimming Pool-Activity Room 11-13 Jul 8:00pm to 10:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 - Over 15 ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

*The Other Side of Midnight - Feeling Foolish Productions (New Writing)In the city of Venice a group of people are stranded on the island before it disappears forever. An absurdist journey that will challenge the delicate balance of life. The remaining individuals have to face the prospect that they have no future, only a past to reflect upon. Burbage Institute 12 Jul 6:30pm to 7:15pm, 8:00pm to 8:45pm, 13 Jul 4:00pm to 4:45pm, 6:30pm to 7:15pm £6.00 Children and Concessions £4.00 - Some strong language, and mild sexual innuendo Review Direct bookings via hanna_lambert@hotmail.co.uk Direct Opera House Online Booking

*Our Country's Good/Desdemona - Imagine Theatre Back from last year's success, Imagine Theatre Company presents a dual performance of Timberlake Wertenbaker's Our Country's Good and Paula Vogul's Desdemona. These productions will give the audience an opportunity to see a diverse range of talent presented by students from Buxton Community School. Buxton Community School-Drama Studio 19 Jul 7:00pm to 9:00pm £6.00 Children £3.00 Concessions £3.50 - Some strong language Review Direct bookings via alexarcher1983@hotmail.com 07794 060526 Direct Opera House Online Booking

*Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Jon Jory - Act One Drama Studio The Sheffield-based drama group debut with Jane Austen's classic story of the trials and tribulations of finding the perfect suitor for marriage. Will it be a Bingley, Wickham or Mr Darcy? A delightful piece of theatre for all generations. Pavilion Gardens-Octagon 16-17 Jul 7:30pm to 9:45pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Ages 8 + Review Direct bookings via 0114 2667209 Direct Opera House Online Booking

Pub Lecture No.1 - Courtship: Desire to Divorce - A Theatre Company (New Writing)A satirical lecture using physical comedy and textual wit to expose absurd courtship customs from around the world. A stripping bare of the sublime and ridiculous social rules that chaperon us from sexual awakening, through rutting teens, to wedding day and beyond. Nice and Bijou-Old Clubhouse 9-12 Jul 7:30pm to 8:30pm £7.00 Children n/a Concessions £6.00 - Adults only Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Shattered Glass - Reshape Whilst Damp Tomorrow is the last day on earth. Henry finds this hard to believe. In light of his astrologist father's predictions and his mother's unrecognisable past he longs to fill the missing part of his soul - before it's too late... This dark, devised play explores today and asks about tomorrow. ***CANCELLED***

Tape - Northern Outlet Theatre Company Jon, an aspiring filmmaker on the verge of hitting it big, hooks up for the weekend with his best friend from high school, Vince, a volunteer fireman who makes his money selling dope. Enter Amy Randall, whom they once both dated. Accusations fly, resentment festers and sexual jealousies are exposed. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 21-23 Jul 1:30pm to 3:00pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Threads by David Lane - Ugly Sister Productions (New Writing)A young man sits in a flat leached of colour waiting for his visitor, living out his days with no contact from the outside world. Upon her arrival an incredible transformation begins to occur, revealing the unseen and disturbing connections between places and people. www.uglysisterproductions.com Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 21-23 Jul 3:30pm to 4:30pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £5.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

The Tragedy of Richard III - Black Box Theatre Company 'And so, since I cannot prove a lover...I am determined to prove a villain.' In an English court torn apart by sleaze and war, Richard, the scheming Duke of Gloucester, works his way to the throne through a series of bloody murders. Can anyone stop this Machiavellian villain? NOW EXTRA SHOWS AT NICE ONE! Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 16 Jul 8:30pm to 9:50pm, 17 Jul 6:45pm to 8:05pm, 18 Jul 8:30pm to 9:50pm, 19 Jul 6:45pm to 8:05pm, Nice One-Old Clubhouse 25-26 Jul 9:30pm to 10:50pm £8.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare - The Young REC Theatre Company The farcical complications of Viola's attempts to woo Olivia on behalf of Duke Orsino get rumbustiously problematic when moronic Andrew Aguecheek and Malvolio get caught up with the plot courtesy of scheming Sir Toby Belch - never send a boy to do a man's job, especially if he's a girl! Nice One-Old Clubhouse 14-19 Jul 7:15pm to 9:00pm £7.00 Children £4.00 Concessions £6.00 Ages 10 + Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

*Two by Jim Cartwright - Crewe Lyceum Theatre Group Two by Jim Cartwright is a hilarious and at times poignant play set in a typical northern pub and the action takes place over one night. Amongst all the busyness of the pub we have a captivating glimpse of real life portrayed through Cartwright's gripping script. Pavilion Gardens-Paxton Suite 26 Jul 2:30pm to 4:30pm, 7:30pm to 9:30pm £5.00 Children n/a Concessions £2.50 - Suggested audience 18 + Review Direct bookings via sian.ogden@crewe-nantwich.gov.uk Direct Opera House Online Booking

Waiting for Wolves - In a Tent Theatre Company (New Writing)Inspired by Samuel Beckett's Come and Go and told with a dynamic and unique twist on a classic tale, this fresh, upcoming theatre company produces a thought-provoking exploration of the choices of the modern woman and her changing role in society. www.inatenttheatre.com Nice One-Old Clubhouse 16-19 Jul 5:30pm to 6:30pm £7.00 Children n/a Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Whacker Murphy's Bad Buzz - Back of The Hand Theatre (New Writing)An original one-man play that will insult, inspire and endear all who succumb to Whacker's 'wiseboy' charm. Will Dublin's dodgy dealer get Jimmy his money by Thursday - or pay the ultimate price? A hectic, hilarious, yet moving and tragic new piece. Directed by Tom Hickey of the Irish National Theatre. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 23-25 Jul 9:30pm to 10:25pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

When You're Smiling - GlovesOff Productions (New Writing)What brings Alec and Dave to spend their lunch-break in a funeral parlour? Who is the deceased, and how does his wife fit into all this? What is there to smile about? Patricia Hartshorne and Michael Elphick return to Buxton Fringe with this new black comedy from GlovesOff Productions. Nice One-Old Clubhouse 16-19 Jul 9:30pm to 10:20pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Womb Man - RJ Arts (New Writing)An epileptic speed freak trying to deliver the best man's speech between God and the Devil. Witness the tortured history of humankind laid bare in this fearless work of new writing on its first major UK tour. Characters weave through furiously, railing against the unjust imposition of the omnipotent author. Underground Venues - Pauper's Pit 23-25 Jul 10:35pm to 11:30pm £7.50 Children and Concessions £5.50 Review Direct bookings via www.undergroundvenues.co.uk 07980 292978

do the right thing...but not right now - Comfortism (New Writing)An evening of very short and surreal plays ranging from low comedy to highly political in-your-face satire; sometimes involving the audience - with hilarious results. Can you keep up the pace and do the right thing in this wonderfully weird world of Comfortism? 'Innovative and charmingly edgy performances.' www.comfortism.co.ukwww.myspace.com/comfortism Nice and Bijou-Old Clubhouse 15-18 Jul 7:30pm to 9:00pm £7.00 Children and Concessions £6.00 - Adults and older teenagers Review Direct bookings via www.nicevenues.co.uk 07967 294462

Visual Arts

Annual Art Exhibition - Burbage Art Group A chance to see exciting new works by Burbage Art Group, which meets every Wednesday evening at the Burbage Institute (school term times only). The group has never been bigger and members experiment in a variety of media and styles. Free refreshments, cakes and children's quiz. Further information 01538 266220. Burbage Institute 19 Jul 11:00am to 1:00pm Free Ages All Review

Collectors and Collections: Work and Pensions - Buxton Museum and Art Gallery In 1908 the Old Age Pensions Act was passed - this exhibition celebrates working lives and the importance of Friendly Societies in supporting families in times of hardship. Tools of the trades, Friendly Society sashes and images of workplaces over three centuries illustrate the rise of the industrial society. Buxton Museum and Art Gallery 9-11 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 12 Jul 9:30am to 5:00pm, 13 Jul 10:30am to 5:00pm, 15-18 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 19 Jul 9:30am to 5:00pm, 20 Jul 10:30am to 5:00pm, 22-25 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 26 Jul 9:30am to 5:00pm, 27 Jul 10:30am to 5:00pm Free Review

The Derbyshire Open 2008 - Buxton Museum and Art Gallery The Derbyshire Open exhibition is an annual highlight. Professional and amateur artists of all ages have submitted work for judging by an independent panel. The top award is a purchase prize of £750 and sponsors include Derbyshire County Council, Tarmac Ltd and the Friends of Buxton Museum and Art Gallery. Buxton Museum and Art Gallery 9-11 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 12 Jul 9:30am to 5:00pm, 13 Jul 10:30am to 5:00pm, 15-18 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 19 Jul 9:30am to 5:00pm, 20 Jul 10:30am to 5:00pm, 22-25 Jul 9:30am to 5:30pm, 26 Jul 9:30am to 5:00pm, 27 Jul 10:30am to 5:00pm Free Review

Exhibition of Paintings - Alan Bailey An exhibition of approximately 60 paintings of the Peak District in oil and watercolours. Winner of the Watercolour Prize of the Derbyshire Open Exhibition 2006 and Visual Arts Award of the Fringe 2007. (The Knoll is only a few hundred yards from Poole's Cavern). The Knoll, 134 Green Lane 11-13, 19-20, 25-27 Jul 11:00am to 5:00pm Free Review

The Great Dome Art Fair - Peak District Products PDP launches a new major event with affordable originals representing visual art, jewellery, furniture, ceramics, textiles, fashion, photography, sculpture, stained glass, calligraphy, wood-carving, silver, fine food and mosaics. PDP, founded in 1991, is an association of over 50 professional craftspeople, artists and food producers around the Peak District. Derby University - The Dome 26-27 Jul 10:00am to 4:30pm Free Ages All Review

Spirit of the Place - Sue Mortin A selling exhibition of colourful, contemporary mystical paintings on display at The Place - during normal opening hours throughout the Festival. www.theplacebuxton.co.uk The Place 9-27 Jul - During opening hours - 01298 214565 to confirm Free Review

Other Events

Buxton Carnival Float - Buxton Festival Fringe The Fringe will be taking to the streets of Buxton in its own inimitable style as part of this year's Buxton Carnival procession. Look out for the orange and white float complete with Fringe fairies! Around the Town 12 Jul 2:00pm to 4:00pm Free Ages All Review

Fringe Awards Ceremony - Buxton Festival Fringe The prestigious Fringe Awards Ceremony is open to all entrants and Friends of the Fringe. Derby University - The Dome 27 Jul 2:00pm to 3:00pm Free - Friends and Entrants only

Fringe Launch Party - Underground Events Join us for the official launch of the Buxton Fringe 2008 - in the atmospheric vaults of the Old Hall Hotel. Catch preview performances, meet the people in and behind the Fringe and enjoy drinks, music and some Fringey entertainment. No booking required - just come along! Underground Venues - Fringe Club 9 Jul 7:00pm to midnight Free

Guided Walk - Vera Brittain's Buxton - Jennie Ainsworth Blue Badge Tourist Guide A leisurely walk to follow the story of Vera Brittain's life in Buxton 1904-1915 and to see some of the locations mentioned in Testament of Youth. Distance approx one mile, duration two hours. Start at the Vera Brittain plaque in the Pavilion Gardens foyer. Pavilion Gardens-Foyer 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25-26 Jul 2:00pm to 4:00pm £2.00 Children £1.00 Concessions n/a Review

*History of Water and Well Dressing in Buxton Walk - Buxton Well Dressing Committee A walk around the centre of Buxton with Chris Simpson and Christine Gould of the Well Dressing Committee, highlighting the link between the development of Buxton and its unique thermal water, with a visit to the well dressing at St Ann's Well to see how it is made. 90 minutes duration. Buxton Opera House Forecourt 9-10 Jul 10:30am to noon £5.00 ReviewDirect Opera House Online Booking

King Sterndale Slides with Music - John Dagger Slides accompany pieces of music. This year's programme includes: Elgar's Pomp and Circumstance No 4 to a Royal Visit in Ottawa; Vaughan Williams' Fantasia on a theme by Thomas Tallis with slides of the Peak District; Stravinsky's Firebird Suite for slides of Turkey. ***CANCELLED***

The Patchwork of Many Hands - Patchwork Open Studio 'Many hands make light work', they say. Come and add your touch to the Patchwork of Many Hands studio sessions and make a crazy multi-coloured work. All materials and some inspiration provided. Open 10-3pm, come when you like. Bring packed lunch. Refreshments provided. No crèche. 4 Wyatville Avenue 14-18, 21-25 Jul 10:00am to 3:00pm £5.00 Children and Concessions n/a - No children under 16 please Review Direct bookings via 01298 24897